Time to Book Your Valentine’s Day Getaway

Like it or not, V-Day is right around the corner (just a month away, to be exact). So, if you really want to impress your sweetie, it would be a good idea to start planning now. But if you’re still in the dark about what to get that special someone, there’s a good chance they only want to spend some quality time with you.

Sex and the City Zoo 4: Sexy Beast
Say what? Stay with us for a second. The Los Angeles Zoo is holding an “adults-only affair” on Feb. 9 with an enlightening talk by actress and interpretive naturalist of zoology Joleen Lutz. a reception featuring desserts and wines, “animal walk-abouts,” (including chats with keepers and the chance to observe small animals up close) and an optional 4-course dinner at Reggie’s Bistro inside the Zoo.

Dinner guests receive a long stem rose per couple and a glass of champagne per person, and proceeds from the fundraiser will support the zoo and their mission of wildlife conservation. Seating is limited, and reservations are required by Feb. 6. Call 323-644-6042 for reservations.

Fire & Ice Package: Skate to Your Heart’s Content
Set against the romantic backdrop of Lake Oconee, The Ritz-Carlton Lodge, Reynolds Plantation in Greensboro, GA, is offering couples a weekend full of chances to get close. From unlimited skating on their glittering 5,000-square-foot ice rink to indulgent Valentine’s-themed spa treatments, consider this trip time well spent. To book this package, call 800-826-1945.

While there, don’t miss the Aphrodisiac Valentine’s Menu served at Gaby’s by the Lake from Feb. 14-16 featuring oysters (obviously), jumbo asparagus (a wedding-night aphrodisiac in France) and lavender-honey-glazed carrots (honey has been associated with sensuality since the beginning of time) among the many courses.

Sexy Luxury Beyond Compare at Las Alamandas
If you’re in the mood for something more exotic, then head to Costalegre, Mexico, for a stay at Las Alamandas. Their Valentine package includes 2 nights in a luxurious ocean-view suite, lime margaritas upon arrival (yes, please), a tropical fruit platter in the room, 3 gourmet meals daily served al fresco at the Oasis Restaurant or in the privacy of your suite, a gourmet picnic with sparkling wine, sunset margaritas and a 1-hour horseback ride for 2. Call 888-882-9616 for reservations.

Las Alamandas is nestled within a private nature reserve of white-sand beaches, rocky capes, lagoons and jungle terrain – all ideal for biking, hiking and photo ops with dramatic panoramas of the coast. Sounds pretty good to us.

Rekindle Romance in OrlandoThe Orlando World Center Marriott is offering couples a chance to “Rekindle Romance” from Feb. 15-17 in everyone’s favorite vacation destination. From breakfast in bed, a couple’s spa treatment and champagne-and-strawberries turndown service, this package is just the beginning of a romantic weekend in the city that let’s you be a kid again. The year-round average temperature is a perfect 78-degrees; how can you say no? Call 888-99-WORLD for reservations.

Husband gives sick wife life-saving kidney transplant for Valentine’s Day
Richard Mach, 62, gave his wife, Joy Mach, the ultimate Valentine’s Day gift when he donated his kidney to her. The transplant means Joy, who suffers from Crohn’s disease, will likely avoid ever having to undergo painful dialysis treatments.

Las Alamandas is nestled within a private nature reserve of white-sand beaches, rocky capes, lagoons and jungle terrain – all ideal for biking, hiking and photo ops with dramatic panoramas of the coast. Sounds pretty good to us.